Army organises Bangus Awaam Mela

Handwara :The remote, serene and beautiful Bangas valley, which is host to large number of Gujjar/ Bakarwal, Pahari and Kashmiri population who move to the higher reaches in summers, wore a festive look today. 7 Sector Rashtriya Rifles organised a two days Bangas Awaam Mela’ which was well attended by the Awaam and Government representatives.

The inauguration ceremony was followed by ‘Know our Army’ and a Medical cum Veterinary Camp. The Gujjars/ Bakarwal being a hardy lot have a natural affinity for a adventurous life. The opportunity for the younger generation who are educated to join the Army evoked much interest.

Being a remote location, the medical and veterinary facilities provided access to basic health care and medicines to the people and their livestock. The camp turned out to be a great success as it met the aspirations of the Gujjars/ Bakarwal. The medical camp which was a combined effort of medical officers of 7 Sector Rashtriya Rifles and medical staff of the District Hospital, Handwara treated 760 people (575 adults and 185 children) and 987 livestock.

Thus having met the primary requirements of the people, the next day promises to be interesting with various mega events organised like Display of Martial Arts, Horse Race and Folk Dance & Songs by popular artistes. 600 solar lights will be distributed by the Army at the event.Besides it The visitors came back with good memories and thanked the Army especially Com 7 sector RR DR-RAI and CO 21RR Kuldeep Singh for making this tour a memorable one.